The Best Body Scrub Brush

Buying Guide

The cells on the outer layer of your skin die throughout the day, and while you shed some of those in your surrounding environment, plenty remain on the outer layer of your skin. Over time, those residual skin cells can clog pores and lead to dry, scaly patches. Exfoliating, such as with a body scrub brush, can help slough off that dead skin, giving the pores beneath the air they need.

There are some precautions you should take if you’re tackling exfoliation on your own. You’ll need to use the right products and apply gentle pressure at first to ensure you don’t damage your skin. Exfoliation can also dry out your skin, so it’s important to moisturize immediately after to give it the hydration it needs.

Often consumers focus on the face and neck area when it comes to exfoliation. Skin cells die across the entire surface of the skin, so your face and neck are only part of the picture. If you’re using skin scrubs and other cosmetics to exfoliate, though, it can be tough to get to some areas of the body.

A scrub brush is designed to give you that all-over exfoliation experience with minimal effort. You can choose a brush that fits in the palm of your hand, but to get to your backside easily, a scrub brush with a longer handle can make a big difference.

But the bristles of a scrub brush are the biggest factor to consider. Harsher bristles can be great for sloughing away those skin cells, but they can also be too rough, especially for sensitive skin. With many scrub brushes, you can use the dry bristles for exfoliating, then wet them and use your brush with your favorite body wash in the shower or bath. Over time, you’ll determine which combination of processes works best for your skin.

• Any time you’re trying a new skincare product or procedure, it’s best to test a small patch of skin and wait a day or two, watching for any reaction, before using it on a larger scale.
• Exfoliating can open the pores, which means some topical products may cause a reaction if you use them immediately after treatment. If you use products like retinol or benzoyl peroxide after exfoliating, your skin may become dryer than usual and possibly even peel.
• You can overdo it when it comes to exfoliating. Everyday exfoliation will be too much for many skin types, but once a week might not be often enough for you. For best results, see a dermatologist for recommendations. Generally speaking, if you start to notice your skin is dryer than usual or showing red patches, it might be time to back off a little.
• If you have a sunburn or any open wounds, skip exfoliating. You can further irritate your skin by exfoliating.
• Scrub brushes with handles can vary in length. Make sure you’re getting one that will help you comfortably get to all the areas of your back.
• Consider where you’ll store the scrub brush between uses. You might need to install a nail or hook in your bathroom to hang it.
• For those who need to exfoliate regularly, there will be a need to take a scrub brush on the go. You can find smaller, more portable scrub brushes that easily pack into your suitcase or overnight bag.
• Some scrub brushes have handles that are designed with ergonomics in mind. This type of brush will help keep you comfortable while you’re using it.
• Your scrub brush should be designed to endure plenty of moisture, considering it will be used in the shower or bath. Many have wooden handles, so make sure the wood used is water-resistant and can remain in your shower area around the clock without showing signs of wear.